Television programming highlights for October 2026

From October 18 to 24, 2026, television viewers can expect a wide array of programming, including films, series, documentaries, and special shows across various channels. This period offers a mix of historical, political, and artistic content, appealing to a broad audience.

Documentary on an art patron and collector

Une vie pour l'art – Gustave Fayet, artiste et collectionneur de la modernité will air on Arte, focusing on the life of Gustave Fayet, an artist, collector, and influential patron who supported the avant-garde movements between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The documentary explores his role in shaping modern art and his connections with key figures of the time.

Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar on Arte

Interstellar, directed by Christopher Nolan, will also be featured on Arte. The film delves into themes of science, emotion, and space exploration, with a storyline that includes black holes, time distortions, and a love story that challenges the laws of the universe. The film will be preceded by a portrait of actress Jessica Chastain, highlighting her career and contributions to cinema.

Documentary on democracy in Israel

Israel: how to save democracy will be shown on Arte, discussing the ongoing struggle to preserve democracy in Israel following the events of October 7, 2023. The documentary features voices of activists who are re-evaluating their relationship with the Palestinian question and the future of Israeli democracy.

Kibboutz Nir Oz and its history

Kibboutz Nir Oz, at the gates of Gaza will air on Arte, presenting images shot over decades by Chaïm Peri. The film tells the story of Nir Oz, a kibbutz near Gaza, exploring its ideals, contradictions, and the tragic events that led to its downfall in the face of regional conflict.

Yemen’s complex conflict examined

Yemen, crossroads of all wars will be featured on Arte, examining a complex conflict where regional rivalries, military ambitions, and global interests intersect. The documentary provides an in-depth look at the humanitarian crisis and the geopolitical stakes involved in the ongoing war.

French film on a housewife’s political journey

Potiche, directed by François Ozon, will air on France 3. The film transforms the story of a housewife’s revenge into a joyful political statement, highlighting themes of empowerment and social change in 1970s France.

Italian film on a television presenter’s scandal

Portobello, by Marco Bellochio, will be shown on Arte, tackling the true story of a television presenter wrongly accused of having an affair with the mafia. The film explores the impact of false accusations and the media's role in shaping public perception.

Tim Burton’s gothic tale on T18

Les Noces funèbres, a gothic tale by Tim Burton, will air on T18. The film elevates skeletons to heroes and turns disarticulation into poetry, offering a darkly whimsical take on love and death in a macabre setting.

Film about the Watergate scandal

Les Hommes du président, a film about the Watergate affair, will be shown on France 5. The film offers a meticulous recreation of the investigation conducted by journalists from the Washington Post, highlighting the role of the press in uncovering government misconduct.

Teenager’s journey in La Grande Affabulation

La Grande Affabulation will air on France 4, following a teenager's journey to find her missing journal, accompanied by the Popular Ensemble of the Opéra-Comique. The film blends personal discovery with musical performance, creating a unique narrative experience.